In 1971, Canada was the first country in the world to adopt multiculturalism as an official policy (Multiculturalism Act, 1988). This act affirmed the value and dignity of all Canadian citizens regardless of their racial or ethnic origins, their language, or their religious affiliation.

Source: Government of Canada (n.d.). Canadian multiculturalism: An inclusive citizenship. Retrieved May 11, 2017 from
http://www.cic.gc.ca